What is the story
Microsoft is introducing a more streamlined version of the Microsoft Store, to simplify web installation of Windows Store apps.
The new system functions as a standard executable for installing applications, making it easier for users to find and install applications online.
Previously, users had to launch the Microsoft Store and a mini window to download apps, but now they can download a standalone installer from the online version of the store.
New approach simplifies app installation in two clicks
The new approach eliminates the need to click Install (on the web), allow Chrome or Edge to open the Microsoft Store, and then click Install again.
Instead, users will download a lightweight installer that they can launch to install the apps they want.
According to Microsoft developer Rudy Huyn, this simplifies the process to two clicks.
However, testing shows that it still requires three clicks: one to download, another to open the installer, and a final click to install in the prompt that appears.
Not all apps support the new lightweight installer yet
It’s important to note that not all Microsoft Store apps currently support this new lightweight installer.
Tom Warren The edge reports that while he was able to download packaged versions of GroupMe and Snapchat, attempts to download Discord still redirected him to the Microsoft Store.
Additionally, these standalone installers do not include the full application installer; which is only downloaded during the installation process.
Microsoft Reports Increase in App Installs and Launches
Over a five-month period, Microsoft tested this new method and reported an average 12% increase in installs and a 54% increase in app launches after installation.
This promising result for developers wanting to get Windows users to install and use their applications has prompted Microsoft to expand this experiment to “more products and markets,” as Huyn said.
What is the story
Microsoft is introducing a more streamlined version of the Microsoft Store, to simplify web installation of Windows Store apps.
The new system functions as a standard executable for installing applications, making it easier for users to find and install applications online.
Previously, users had to launch the Microsoft Store and a mini window to download apps, but now they can download a standalone installer from the online version of the store.
New approach simplifies app installation in two clicks
The new approach eliminates the need to click Install (on the web), allow Chrome or Edge to open the Microsoft Store, and then click Install again.
Instead, users will download a lightweight installer that they can launch to install the apps they want.
According to Microsoft developer Rudy Huyn, this simplifies the process to two clicks.
However, testing shows that it still requires three clicks: one to download, another to open the installer, and a final click to install in the prompt that appears.
Not all apps support the new lightweight installer yet
It’s important to note that not all Microsoft Store apps currently support this new lightweight installer.
Tom Warren The edge reports that while he was able to download packaged versions of GroupMe and Snapchat, attempts to download Discord still redirected him to the Microsoft Store.
Additionally, these standalone installers do not include the full application installer; which is only downloaded during the installation process.
Microsoft Reports Increase in App Installs and Launches
Over a five-month period, Microsoft tested this new method and reported an average 12% increase in installs and a 54% increase in app launches after installation.
This promising result for developers wanting to get Windows users to install and use their applications has prompted Microsoft to expand this experiment to “more products and markets,” as Huyn said.